Creamy Spinach Meatball Pasta

Creamy Spinach Meatball Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that blends tender meatballs with a rich, garlicky cream sauce, fresh spinach, and pasta. It’s a family-friendly dinner that’s both elegant and satisfying, perfect for weeknight meals or weekend indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pan meal delivers everything you want in a dinner: comforting textures, rich flavors, and a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbs. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: A velvety garlic-Parmesan cream coats each bite.

• Protein-Packed: Juicy meatballs add hearty substance.

• Vegetable Boost: Fresh spinach blends seamlessly into the sauce.

• Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day.

• Customizable: Works with beef, turkey, or plant-based meatballs.

• Kid and Adult Friendly: Mild flavors appeal to all ages.

Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a meal that feels gourmet with minimal effort, this recipe delivers.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ground beef or turkey

• breadcrumbs

• grated Parmesan

• egg

• garlic powder

• salt and pepper

• olive oil

• fresh or frozen spinach

• heavy cream

• milk

• butter

• garlic cloves, minced

• Parmesan cheese (for sauce)

• cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)

directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs
   In a bowl, combine 1 lb ground meat, ¼ cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.

2. Cook the Meatballs
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 10 minutes). Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Cream Sauce
   In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup milk. Simmer gently, then stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan until melted.

4. Add Spinach
   Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. If using frozen, thaw and drain before adding.

5. Combine Everything
   Return the meatballs to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and stir to coat everything in the sauce. Simmer for 3–5 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Serve
   Garnish with extra Parmesan and cracked pepper. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 4–6 servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

This dish is flexible and easy to adapt. Try these fun variations:

• Vegetarian: Use plant-based meatballs or sautéed mushrooms instead.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

• Extra Herbs: Stir in chopped basil, parsley, or oregano.

• Cheesy Top: Sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil for a baked finish.

• Different Pasta: Try fusilli, bowties, or even gluten-free noodles.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for best texture.

• Reheating: Warm in a skillet or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, meatballs can be formed and stored in the fridge up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely. Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the sauce.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Short-cut pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini holds the sauce well.

Can I bake the meatballs instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and cooked through.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer it longer to reduce, or whisk in a small amount of flour or cornstarch slurry.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger skillet or pot.

What meats work best?

Ground beef, pork, turkey, or a mix all yield juicy meatballs.

Can I serve this without pasta?

Certainly—try it over rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

How long will leftovers last?

Stored properly, leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheat well.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach Meatball Pasta is a comforting, all-in-one meal that brings classic flavors and modern ease together in a single skillet. With tender meatballs, a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce, and a boost of leafy greens, it’s a dinner that satisfies every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a true winner.

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